A new year is in full swing, and you’re considering where you’ll take a trip in the coming months. There are plenty of places around the world to explore, especially if you want to go to a different state.

Check out these 10 essential travel tips to use when visiting a cold weather place. They’ll help you plan your vacation and arrive with everything you need to have a great time.

1. Pack Extra Pants

The idea of walking into a winter wonderland is enchanting and draws many people to see beautiful snow-covered cities. Don’t forget that the snow will cling to your legs and melt as soon as you step inside, drenching your jeans and making them uncomfortable to wear.

Pack a few pairs of extra pants so you can switch them out if you get covered in snow or freezing rain. You might also want to layer up if it’s a particularly cold day, so you can stay outside for longer.

2. Bundle Up with Thin Sweaters

Traveling in the cold is a great excuse to pack all your favorite chunky knit sweaters and wool pullovers, but those occupy a lot of space in your suitcase. You may want to layer your clothing once you get to your destination, so bring a few thin sweaters too. They’re easy to wear under another shirt and provide an additional barrier against the chilly weather.

3. Eat Fish on Fridays

Friday Night Fish Fry is one of the longest-running traditions in a lot of cold weather locations, such as Wisconsin. You’ll find great seafood deals at restaurants on Fridays, so add it to your itinerary. Whether you enjoy cod or perch, there’s a delicious plate of steaming seafood for you to try while snow drifts down from the cloudy skies.

4. See a Game

There are some great sporting events that happen in the cold weather. Bundle on up and catch the local team in action! Before you head out on the big game day, bring hand warmers and gloves so you stay toasty until the clock runs out.

5. Stop by the Farmer’s Market

After you decide which towns you’ll stop by, research upcoming farmer’s markets. These spots are one of the many ways people enjoy free and fun activities around the state, especially since they pop up in almost every town. Unless there’s a major winter storm, you should be able to find both indoor and outdoor markets throughout the year.

6. Remember Lip Moisturizers

If you’re not visiting in the middle of summer, it’s smart to pack your favorite lip moisturizers. You could wrap your scarf over your mouth, but the dry winter air will still crack your lips and leave you uncomfortable. Get something extra moisturizing and avoid chapped lips by applying the balm at least twice a day.

7. Enjoy a Winter Festival

Locals aren’t afraid of a little snow and chilly winds, so you’ll easily find winter festivals in most towns you consider traveling to. While you’re at a celebration, taste local cuisine and bring home art you won’t find anywhere else.

8. Sled Down the Slopes

Some people may zoom down slopes in their backyards, but there are plenty of public sledding areas for tourists to enjoy. Bring a sled or get one after you arrive so you can fly down hills and experience this snow-day activity like never before.

9. Look Into Travel Insurance

if you’re used to driving in freezing temperatures, look into travel insurance and get a plan that will cover you in case something happens. You never know when you’ll accidentally drive across black ice or get caught in a storm. Insurance will help you out in case your trip has a few bumps in the road.

10. Bring Weatherproof Boots

You may pack several pairs of shoes for your trip, depending on what you’ll do and what outfits you’ll wear. It’s smarter to bring a single pair of boots made with weatherproof material. They’ll withstand snow and slush, plus days of walking around. Invest in a high-quality pair, and you can reuse them for years.

Make a Bucket List

You’ll have more fun on any trip if you prepare before you leave. Think about what will make your vacation easier, like packing extra pants or bringing weatherproof boots. Whether you stop by a farmer’s market or go to a football game, there are plenty of ways to fill your time and stay warm before it’s time to go home.

Kacey is a lifestyle blogger for Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts.